Concussions and Rugby: Determining the Long-Term Effect on Players’ Health

In recent years, concern over the impact of concussions in contact sports like rugby has grown significantly.

Latest research has started to shed light on how repeated head injuries can lead to serious long-term health problems, particularly neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and motor neurone disease (MND).

This article reveals findings from recent studies and the implications for current and retired rugby players.

Concussions in Rugby: An Overview

Rugby is a high-impact sport where physical contact is an inherent part of the game. While injuries such as broken bones and torn ligaments are more obvious, concussions—sometimes called mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI)—have become a critical issue in rugby.

Players often endure multiple concussions throughout their careers, and growing evidence indicates that this cumulative head trauma can have devastating long-term consequences.

Many well-known rugby players have suffered several serious concussions during their intense and long rugby careers. One of the most famous ones is former England hooker Steve Thompson, who is starring in a fascinating BBC documentary telling his story.

In this documentary, Steve reveals the devastating physical and mental impact that his career as a professional rugby player has had on his health, family, work and day-to-day life. Watch the documentary here.

The Science Behind Concussions and Brain Health

In one of the latest and comprehensive study from 2024, conducted at Durham University and as part of the UK Rugby Health Project, the researchers revealed disturbing biological changes in rugby players who experienced multiple concussions.

Blood samples from 30 retired rugby players showed elevated levels of specific proteins associated with neural damage. These proteins, including tau (t-tau and p-tau) and serum amyloid alpha (SAA), are often linked to the development of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and MND.

One of the most important findings was the reduction in retinoid transport protein (RBP-4), essential for brain development and function.

This protein was found in lower levels in players who had sustained concussions. Researchers believe this could pave the way for retinoid-based treatments aimed at mitigating some of the brain damage caused by repeated concussions.

Biomarkers: A New Way to Monitor Brain Health

This study marks a significant milestone in the development of biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases.

By identifying these biomarkers, scientists hope to create a “biomarker toolbox” to monitor the brain health of retired athletes and others exposed to repeated head trauma.

Such monitoring could enable early diagnosis of neurodegenerative conditions, giving healthcare professionals the opportunity to intervene before significant damage occurs.

The potential to diagnose players early would not only help manage the risk but could also lead to the development of preventative interventions.

While this research is in its early stages, the biomarkers identified could revolutionize the way athletes’ brain health is monitored and managed after retirement.

Real-Life Impact: Stories from the Field

Alix Popham, a former Wales international rugby player, is one of the most vocal advocates for change in how rugby handles concussions.

Diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and early-onset dementia, Popham has used his personal experience to highlight the need for stricter protocols and protective measures for players.

His case is one of many pushing the rugby world to take concussions more seriously.

Popham’s story exemplifies the long-term risks that players face. While rugby governing bodies like World Rugby have made strides in implementing concussion protocols, there is still a long way to go in terms of protecting players from the cumulative effects of head trauma.

As the Durham study shows, more needs to be done to monitor retired players and safeguard the current generation.

The Future: What Needs to Change?

The findings of the Durham study, as well as mounting evidence from other research, underscore the urgent need for change in rugby.

Governing bodies, teams, and players must take action to minimize the risks associated with repeated head injuries. Some of the steps that could be implemented include:

– Improved Concussion Protocols: Immediate removal from play after a suspected concussion is essential, followed by thorough medical evaluation and a gradual return-to-play process. While these protocols exist, enforcement remains inconsistent.

– Post-Retirement Monitoring: As recommended by the Durham study, retired players, especially those with a history of multiple concussions, should undergo regular brain health check-ups. Monitoring biomarkers in their blood could help detect early signs of neurodegenerative diseases and allow for timely interventions.

– Funding for Research: The UK Rugby Health Project has made significant strides despite limited funding. More financial support is needed to continue researching the long-term effects of concussions and to develop effective treatments for players affected by traumatic brain injuries.

– Player Education: Raising awareness among current players about the dangers of concussions and the importance of seeking medical help after head injuries is crucial. Education programs at all levels of the game could help reduce the stigma around reporting concussions and ensure that players prioritize their long-term health.

Conclusion

Rugby is a sport loved by millions, but the growing number of research on concussions and their long-term impact shows that changes are needed to protect players.

The studies led by Durham University and others offer hope that early diagnosis and intervention could help mitigate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases in retired athletes. However, it is crucial that rugby’s governing bodies, clubs, and players take these findings seriously and work together to ensure that future generations can enjoy the sport without sacrificing their long-term health.

For further reading about this topic, check out the following articles:

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